Wednesday’s With Whit: Intermittent Hiatus
For years, summer meant a hiatus. This year? I’m calling it an intermittent hiatus.
While I’m making space for family time and soaking up summer with my twins, Chicago keeps delivering incredible stories that make it hard to step away completely. So we’re embracing both summer and the conversations that inspire, challenge, and connect us.
On the most recent segment of Wednesdays with Whit, I shared moments that made this summer memorable, from learning to drive a NASCAR race car and interviewing Tony Hale to meeting inspiring guests like Blake Du Bois. I also previewed what's ahead for The Whitney Reynolds Show, exciting Chicago events, and a few projects I can't wait to share.
I got to sit down with Blake Du Bois, a performer on tour for Kinky Boots who lives with Tourette's syndrome. Watching him turn what many would see as a challenge into a superpower on stage was a powerful reminder that resilience often comes from embracing what makes us different. I’ve seen that theme again and again this season: the most inspiring people aren’t the ones who avoid obstacles, they’re the ones who learn to thrive because of them.
That lesson hit home for me in an unexpected way when I climbed behind the wheel of a NASCAR race car. After learning to drive a stick shift, I legally hit 122 miles per hour on the track. The speed was unforgettable, but the bigger takeaway was trust. Sometimes growth happens when we stop questioning ourselves and simply lean into the moment.
Speaking of unforgettable moments, I recently had the chance to attend an early screening of Toy Story 5 with my twins and sit down with Tony Hale. Beyond the laughs and nostalgia, the film explores something many families are navigating right now: finding balance with technology. It’s a heartfelt look at connection in a digital world, and it sparked some meaningful conversations in our own family. I was also fascinated by the movie magic behind it all, including how the cast records their lines separately before the story comes together on screen.
And the stories keep coming.
We’re heading behind the scenes at the United Center with Oscar Seaton to explore the world surrounding Lionel Richie, from the people behind the music to the stories audiences never get to see. It’s another reminder that every successful person, performance, and production has a story worth telling.
As we look ahead, I’m excited to share that Season 12 of The Whitney Reynolds Show premieres the second week of October on Lake Shore PBS before expanding that Saturday nationally. We have another season filled with powerful conversations, remarkable people, and stories that remind us what’s possible.
Before then, I’ll be joining Service Club’s Day on the Terrace on August 10, celebrating Chicago’s first glimpse of fall fashion while supporting an organization that continues to invest in local nonprofits and strengthen our community.
And there’s even more on the horizon.
In August 2026, we’ll launch Whitney Reynolds Live, a special live audience experience that will bring our mission off the screen and into the room. It will be an opportunity to connect, be inspired, and experience these conversations in a whole new way.
As summer continues, I hope that you’ll make room for both adventure and rest. Whether you’re learning something new, spending time with the people you love, or simply slowing down enough to enjoy the season, remember this: some of the best stories begin when we trust ourselves enough to say yes.
Listen below or here.
